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Elgin, TX

Frequently asked questions

Elgin, TX

Elgin is a city in Bastrop County in the U.S. state of Texas. The population was 9,784 at the 2020 census. Elgin is also known as the Sausage Capital of Texas and the Brick Capital of the Southwest, due to the presence of three operating brickyards in the mid-20th century (two of which are still open).

Elgin is located 25 miles (40 km) east of downtown Austin and 18 miles (29 km) north of Bastrop, at the intersection of U.S. Highway 290 and State Highway 95. Most of the city lies in Bastrop County, with a portion extending westward into Travis and Williamson Counties. Most of north Elgin is built on blackland prairie soil.

In 1871, the Houston and Texas Central Railroad (succeeded by the Southern Pacific Transportation Company) built through the area and established a flag stop called Glasscock named for George W. Glasscock, a local resident and Republic of Texas soldier who lived in the area in the 1830s. Glasscock was renamed on August 18, 1872, for Robert Morris Elgin, the railroad's land commissioner, following the practice of naming new railroad towns after officers of the company. Elgin was established. The original plat placed the train depot in the center of a one-square-mile area.

The original plan for the Houston and Texas Central Railroad was to have run from McDade, 10 miles (16 km) east of Elgin, southwest to the Colorado River at a point somewhere between Bastrop and Webberville, then to Austin following the river. These plans, however, were thwarted due to a major flood of the Colorado River in 1869, hence the rerouting of the railroad through what is now Elgin.

Elgin was incorporated, received a post office in 1873, and a Baptist Sunday school began meeting in a private home. Much of the town's early population was drawn from nearby Perryville, which the railroad had bypassed. Perryville, or Hogeye as it was nicknamed, was located 2.5 miles (4.0 km) to the south. The town was known by three different names: the name Young's Settlement was chosen, probably in honor of the Michael Young family; Perryville, possibly for Perry Young, who was Michael Young's son; and Hogeye.

Elgin focuses on health and wellness. Access to healthcare is facilitated by the Elgin General Hospital, ensuring that residents receive quality medical services. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs offered by the Elgin Parks and Recreation Department. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include Serge Fitness, HT Fitness, and Anytime Fitness. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Elgin, such as the Veterans Memorial Park and Thomas Memorial Park. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in Elgin, TX are Elgin Memorial Park, Elgin Depot Museum, and Thomas Memorial Park.

Population: 12,304 (2023). ZIP code: 78621. Area code: 512, 737. Elevation: 518 feet (158 meters). Area: 6.62 sq mi (17.15 km²).

FAQs

What is Elgin, TX best known for?

Elgin rapidly became the most important agricultural center in Bastrop County. Five cotton gins and a cotton oil mill were in operation at the same time. Three manufacturing brick companies in the area gave Elgin the title, "The Brick Capital of the Southwest."

Why is Elgin, TX the sausage capital of Texas?

The town of Elgin is synonymous with sausage. Two local institutions, Southside Market & Barbecue and Meyer’s, have turned out renowned hot sausage since the late 1800s. That history has earned Elgin the title of Sausage Capital of Texas. But there’s more meat on Elgin’s bones than its famed sausage.

Is Elgin, TX a good place to live?

Elgin is in Bastrop County. Living in Elgin offers residents a suburban rural mix feel and most residents own their homes. Many families live in Elgin and residents tend to lean liberal.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Elgin

Elgin General Hospital

Elgin Parks and Recreation Department

Serge Fitness

HT Fitness 

Anytime Fitness

Veterans Memorial Park 

Thomas Memorial Park

Elgin Memorial Park

Elgin Depot Museum

Thomas Memorial Park

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